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Opinions of Tuesday, 18 July 2023

Columnist: Dunstan Guba

Risks of cybersecurity threats to individuals in Ghana

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As more people in Ghana continue to use technology for various purposes, the need for personal cybersecurity awareness creation has become increasingly important.

Personal cybersecurity awareness refers to the knowledge and practices that individuals can adopt to protect their personal information and devices against cyber threats. In Ghana, as in many other countries, cyber threats are on the rise, and individuals are at risk of losing their personal data, including sensitive information such as financial details, medical records, and identity documents.

In this essay, we will explore why personal cybersecurity awareness creation is important in Ghana.

Individuals in Ghana are at risk of several cybersecurity threats. One of the most significant risks is the loss of personal data. In recent years, there has been an increase in data breaches in Ghana, and personal data, including financial details, medical records, and identity documents, have been compromised.

The loss of personal data can have severe consequences, including identity theft, financial fraud, and reputational damage.

Another significant risk associated with cybersecurity threats in Ghana is the potential for online scams and fraud. Cybercriminals often use phishing emails, texts, or social media messages to trick individuals into revealing their personal information or sending money. Online scams and fraud can have significant financial and emotional consequences for individuals in Ghana.

Cybercriminals can use malware, viruses, and other forms of malicious software to gain access to personal devices, including smartphones, laptops, and tablets. A successful cyber attack can result in the theft of personal information, damage to devices, and financial loss.

Importance of personal cybersecurity awareness creation in Ghana

Personal cybersecurity awareness creation is essential in Ghana for several reasons. First, it can help individuals to protect their personal information and devices against cyber threats. This can include learning how to identify phishing scams, how to create strong passwords, how to use antivirus software, and how to protect sensitive information.

Personal cybersecurity awareness creation can also help individuals to respond appropriately in the event of a cyber attack. This can include knowing how to report cybercrime, how to recover from a cyber attack, and how to prevent future attacks.